The Bravo is hardly the first boat I've been on in my 58yrs. I reject the notion that this surface is necessary or desirable-though there probably ARE people out there who like it. The ones who wear Carharts when sailing....

I wear a 'long john' wetsuit (sleeveless) + booties for sailing & kayaking. Zero problem with abrasions on the Bravo. It is 3mm and I wear it year-round (water can be chilly here). You can get thinner ones, and you can get 'shorties' as well, but your lower legs would not be protected. I find it comfortable, even on a very hot day -- Mind you, on a hot day I'll jump in the water at the end of the sail...

This really is an unusual observation concerning the Bravo. I sail both the Wave and Bravo extensively... in trunks. I have never had that experience myself. The boats are big sellers at resorts and clubs. I just don't hear this complaint.

As I noted. Easy to customize your experience. Sand down the non-skid to your liking.

The first time I took out my bravo, my ankles got a bit of an abrasion burn as well. The wind was light, and I was sitting cross legged in a bit of sand I had tracked in. I've been out twice a week since I got it, and no trouble except for that first day.

I have only had mine for a month now but I have had no no issues with the deck. It is a bit rough but no abrasions so far. I usually take a few seconds to use a sponge to splash the sand off the deck before I sail. My shore is rough and our red Island dirt is very abrasive, not to mention almost impossible to clean if it stains clothing.

Somewhere on these boards I read about someone cutting a blue camping pad to size and laying it down when they go out. I'm guessing that if you buy a wide enough one that it could be cut to have part of it shoved under the foot braces to keep it in place. This could add some inexpensive comfort for you without the work of sanding.

Out again today and I seem to have exactly the opposite problem...not rough enough. I keep sliding back on the hull and have to be careful not to slide off the stern when a gust of wind hits. Is there something I can do to make the surface less slippery? As suggested, a wet suit would probably do the trick, but it is too hot here for that.Thanks

Somewhere on these boards I read about someone cutting a blue camping pad to size and laying it down when they go out. I'm guessing that if you buy a wide enough one that it could be cut to have part of it shoved under the foot braces to keep it in place. This could add some inexpensive comfort for you without the work of sanding.[/quote]

I gave this a try and couldn't be happier. Bought the $8 camping mat at Walmart, some rivets and zip tied it in. I also used some silicone glue to keep the front down. It even matches the boat!